Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be an embarrassing and uncomfortable condition. One of the significant causes of bad breath is periodontal disease, a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth.
When plaque and tartar build up on the teeth, bacteria thrive and produce foul-smelling compounds that contribute to bad breath. Fortunately, there are effective strategies to manage and eliminate bad breath associated with periodontal disease. In this article, we will explore eight of the best ways to get rid of bad breath caused by periodontal disease.
What Are Periodontal Disease And Bad Breath
Before diving into solutions, it’s essential to understand the relationship between periodontal disease and bad breath.
Periodontal disease begins with gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss.
The bacteria present in periodontal disease produce sulfur compounds that contribute to bad breath. Additionally, the presence of infected gum tissue can create pockets that harbor bacteria, making it difficult to maintain fresh breath.
Therefore, addressing both the periodontal disease and its symptoms is crucial for effective breath management.
SEE ALSO: What Is Stage 3 Periodontal Disease?
1. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
The foundation of combating bad breath caused by periodontal disease is maintaining excellent oral hygiene. Here are some key practices to follow:
Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Pay special attention to the gumline, as this is where plaque tends to accumulate.
Floss Daily: Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth and below the gumline, where a toothbrush cannot reach. This is crucial for preventing the buildup of bacteria that can cause bad breath.
Use an Antimicrobial Mouthwash: Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash can help kill bacteria in the mouth and reduce bad breath.
Look for mouthwashes that specifically target gingivitis or periodontal disease.
2. Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular visits to the dentist are vital for managing periodontal disease and preventing bad breath.
Professional Cleanings: Dental professionals can remove tartar and plaque buildup that regular brushing and flossing may miss. These cleanings help reduce bacteria in the mouth and improve overall oral health.
Periodontal Maintenance: If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings. This ongoing care is crucial for managing the disease and minimizing bad breath.
Early Detection: Regular check-ups allow for the early detection of any changes in your oral health. Catching problems early can prevent them from worsening and causing further bad breath.
3. Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining fresh breath. Here’s how hydration helps:
Promotes Saliva Production: Saliva is your mouth’s natural defense against bad breath. It helps wash away food particles and bacteria.
When you’re dehydrated, saliva production decreases, leading to dry mouth and an increased risk of bad breath.
Flushes Out Bacteria: Drinking water throughout the day helps flush out bacteria and food particles from your mouth. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water daily to stay adequately hydrated.
Limit Dehydrating Beverages: Reduce your intake of caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, as these can contribute to dry mouth. If you consume them, be sure to drink extra water to counteract their dehydrating effects.
4. Chew Sugar-Free Gum
Chewing sugar-free gum can be an effective way to manage bad breath, especially when you’re unable to brush your teeth.
Stimulates Saliva Production: Chewing gum increases saliva flow, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria in the mouth.
Freshens Breath: Many sugar-free gums contain flavoring agents that provide a temporary freshening effect. Look for gums that contain xylitol, as this ingredient can help inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause bad breath.
Convenient Solution: Keep a pack of sugar-free gum handy for situations when you cannot brush your teeth, such as after meals or during long periods away from home.
5. Use A Tongue Scraper
Many people overlook the importance of cleaning the tongue when addressing bad breath.
Bacteria Accumulation: The surface of the tongue can harbor bacteria, food particles, and dead cells, all of which can contribute to bad breath. A tongue scraper can help remove this buildup effectively.
How to Use: After brushing your teeth, gently scrape your tongue from back to front several times. Rinse the scraper after each pass to remove debris.
Daily Routine: Incorporate tongue scraping into your daily oral hygiene routine for the best results. This simple step can significantly improve your breath.
6. Adjust Your Diet
Your diet plays a crucial role in oral health and can impact bad breath associated with periodontal disease.
Avoid Odor-Causing Foods: Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, can contribute to bad breath. If you’re concerned about your breath, consider limiting these foods, especially before social events.
Increase Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables: Foods like apples, carrots, and celery can help clean your teeth and gums naturally. Their crunchy texture helps remove plaque and stimulate saliva production.
Incorporate Probiotics: Probiotics can help balance the bacteria in your mouth and gut. Foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables may promote a healthier oral environment and reduce bad breath.
7. Quit Smoking And Avoid Tobacco Products
Tobacco use is a significant contributor to bad breath and can worsen periodontal disease.
Eliminate Tobacco Odor: Smoking and chewing tobacco can leave a persistent odor in the mouth. Quitting tobacco products can significantly improve your breath and overall oral health.
Reduce Gum Disease Risk: Tobacco use is linked to an increased risk of developing periodontal disease. By quitting, you can lower your risk and improve your chances of maintaining healthy gums.
Seek Support: If you need help quitting, consider seeking support from healthcare professionals or support groups. There are many resources available to assist you in your journey to quit smoking.
8. Consider Professional Treatments
If bad breath persists despite your best efforts, it may be time to seek professional help.
Consult Your Dentist: If you have ongoing bad breath, schedule an appointment with your dentist. They can evaluate your oral health and determine if periodontal disease or another underlying condition is contributing to your bad breath.
Explore Treatment Options: Depending on the severity of your periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend treatments such as scaling and root planing, antibiotics, or surgical interventions to restore gum health.
Follow-Up Care: After treatment, continue to follow your dentist’s recommendations for maintaining oral hygiene and managing your periodontal health. Regular follow-ups will help ensure that your breath remains fresh.
Conclusion
Bad breath caused by periodontal disease can be distressing, but it is manageable with the right strategies. By maintaining excellent oral hygiene, visiting your dentist regularly, staying hydrated, and making dietary adjustments, you can significantly reduce bad breath.
Additionally, using a tongue scraper, chewing sugar-free gum, quitting tobacco, and seeking professional treatments when necessary can further enhance your efforts.